EFFECTIVE INTERVENTION IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS: WHAT NURTURE GROUPS ACHIEVE

Abstract

In this paper Marion Bennathan describes the nature and development of nurture groups, which are a system of early intervention for children with emotional and behavioural difficulties in the early years of schooling. The theoretical origins of the approach, which draw heavily on the on developmental theories, are briefly described. Evidence is provided of the effectiveness of nurture group in addressing children's emotional and educational needs and enabling them to return to mainstream classes after relatively short periods of intensive treatment. Data is also provided which demonstrates the cost‐effectiveness of the approach. The relevance and importance of such early intervention to the current educational climate are stressed and the compatibility of the approach with current thinking about the value of inclusive approaches to SEN is demonstrated. The paper concludes with a discussion of directions for future development of the nurture groups movement.

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Notes on contributors

Marion Bennathan

Marion Bennathan is former Principal Educational Psychologist for Avon and Chair of AWCEBD.